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ALACHUA – Local property owners who may be affected by a proposed rail-trail conversion near High Springs will have an opportunity next week to learn whether they qualify for federal compensation. Two public informational meetings organized by the Lewis Rice Law Firm are scheduled in Alachua on Dec. 15 and Dec. 17 to explain how landowners can pursue claims related to the project.

The proposed rail-trail would convert approximately 1.4 miles of a former CSX railroad corridor into a public hiking and biking trail. While the corridor itself has long been part of the rail network, adjoining landowners may have underlying property interests that qualify them for compensation if the corridor is repurposed for recreational use.

According to an announcement, dozens of landowners along the route may have takings claims under the National Trails System Act. When a rail line is formally abandoned and converted into a trail, federal law can trigger what is known as a “rails-to-trails” taking. In many cases around the country, landowners have been able to recover compensation from the federal government for property interests impacted by the conversion.

The upcoming meetings are designed to help residents understand that process. Organizers say the sessions will outline why and how a claim can be filed, how the federal review works, what type of representation is available, and how compensation amounts are determined. The meetings will also include time for attendees to ask questions specific to their property.

The Lewis Rice Law Firm notes that it has hosted sessions previously and recovered compensation for landowners in multiple Florida counties, including Sarasota, Pinellas, Lee, Lake and Miami-Dade.

While the proposed High Springs-area project remains in the planning stage, organizers emphasized the importance of educating landowners early. The conversion process can involve a combination of federal action, local planning and private property rights. Understanding whether a parcel qualifies for compensation — and how to preserve that right — can be time-sensitive.

The meetings are free and open to the public, and property owners do not need to register in advance. Anyone with land adjoining or near the former CSX corridor is encouraged to attend, especially those who are uncertain about whether the conversion would impact their title or access.

Meetings will be held Monday, Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. - Hampton Inn & Suites Alachua I-75, 15930 N.W. 163rd Ln, Alachua and Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 9 a.m. and 12 p.m.- Legacy Park Recreation Complex, 15400 Peggy Rd, Alachua.

For residents seeking clarity on potential compensation, the sessions aim to provide a straightforward explanation of the rails-to-trails process and what landowners may expect if the proposed trail moves forward.

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Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com

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